Factory Dual Fuel vs Conversion Kit for Texas

What factory dual fuel means on a listing

On a generator listing, "dual fuel" is the seller's shorthand for a generator designed and built to run on 2 fuels, usually gasoline and propane, without an added kit. Some listings write "gas and propane" or "gas or LP." The title is only the listing; the maker's page states which fuels the unit accepts.

A few listings use "tri fuel" for a generator that runs on gasoline, propane and natural gas. Natural gas is a fossil fuel energy source delivered through a home's gas service, and propane is a hydrocarbon gas liquid stored in a tank. For a Texas home with a propane tank, a dual fuel or tri fuel listing gives the propane option from the factory. See how dual fuel generators compare and the fuel type comparison article.

What a conversion kit is

A conversion kit is a separate package that adds a propane fuel supply to a generator sold as gasoline-only. The kit includes parts that adapt the engine's fuel intake, such as a regulator and a connector. Some kits are sold by the generator maker; others are aftermarket.

The difference matters: a factory dual fuel generator is designed for both fuels, while a converted unit is a gasoline generator modified to accept propane. The maker's manual states whether a kit is approved for a given model and who may fit it. The fuel type comparison explains how the fuels differ.

Warranty and maker coverage

With a factory dual fuel generator, the maker built the fuel system, so the warranty covers the unit as delivered, including the propane parts. The warranty terms on the maker's page or in the manual state exactly what is covered.

With a conversion kit, warranty coverage is a question for the maker. A kit sold by the maker may keep the generator's warranty if it is the approved kit for that model; an aftermarket kit may change coverage. Read the warranty section before buying. See the warranty coverage comparison for what to look for.

Fuel system design

In a factory dual fuel generator, the carburetor, regulator and fuel lines are matched to both fuels from the start. The listing's "dual fuel" description and the maker's page explain how the unit switches between gasoline and propane.

A conversion kit changes how fuel reaches the engine. The kit's regulator and connector must fit the generator's air intake and carburetor. A kit that is not made for the model is a question for the maker; the manual states which kits are approved.

Installation

A factory dual fuel generator needs no fuel system change; the unit is delivered ready for both fuels. A conversion kit is installed work. The maker's manual states whether a qualified installer is required and what the kit covers.

How a generator connects to a propane tank is separate from the generator itself. That connection is a question for your propane supplier and a qualified installer; this site gives no tank or line advice.

Texas shopping situations

For a new generator at a home with a propane tank, a factory dual fuel listing gives the propane option without altering the unit. For a generator you already own and run on gasoline, a conversion kit can add propane if the maker approves it for that model. Browse the dual fuel generator guide for models that state both fuels.

In a rural Texas home, fuel choices before winter storm and summer season depend on what your supplier has. The Texas Division of Emergency Management and Texas Ready pages tell you to be informed, make a plan and build a kit; your fuel supplier can say what is available in your area.

For a first generator, a factory dual fuel unit removes the separate decision about a kit later; you get both fuels as delivered. The backup power guide on this site is a starting point for essentials and whole house choices.

What to check before you choose

Read the listing title for "dual fuel" or "gas and propane," then read the maker's page for the fuel system description, warranty terms and approved kits. The first watts figure on a title is often the starting figure; a conversion does not change how the maker states running watts. See starting vs running watts.

If a listing states a CO sensor and shutoff, that is a feature of that model; running any generator follows the maker's manual and the CPSC, CDC and NFPA carbon monoxide pages. See the generators with CO shutoff guide.

• Read the listing title for "dual fuel" or "gas and propane."
• Check the maker's page for the fuel system and approved kits.
• Read the warranty terms for a converted unit.
• Ask who may install a kit according to the manual.
• Ask your propane supplier about the supply connection.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Does a conversion kit void a generator's warranty?

It depends on the maker. A kit sold and approved by the maker may keep coverage; an aftermarket kit may not. The warranty terms on the maker's page state what is covered.

Is a factory dual fuel generator the same as a converted one?

No. A factory dual fuel generator is built to run on gasoline and propane as delivered; a converted unit is a gasoline generator modified with a kit.

Can any gasoline generator accept a propane conversion kit?

Only if the kit is designed and approved for that model. The maker's manual and page list approved kits.

Which option is better for a home on a propane tank?

A factory dual fuel listing gives the propane option without changing the fuel system. If you already own a gasoline model, an approved kit can add propane; the maker decides approval.

Do conversion kits change the wattage figures on a listing?

No. The wattage figures are the maker's stated figures, shown as starting and running watts. A conversion kit does not change how watts are listed.

What should I check on the maker's page for a conversion kit?

Confirm the kit is approved for your generator model, read the warranty terms, and note who may install it. The manual states the details.

Is a tri fuel generator different from dual fuel?

Yes. Tri fuel means the generator runs on gasoline, propane and natural gas; dual fuel usually means gasoline and propane. The listing states which fuels the unit accepts.